Backpacking

Reservations

Enjoy hiking all the more knowing your campsite is waiting for you. Reservations are required for backcountry camping:

1. Purchase a Wilderness Pass

A Wilderness Pass is required for overnight trips in the backcountry at any time of year. Daily or annual Wilderness Passes, valid for 1 year from the date of purchase, are available. Your fees support the ongoing maintenance of campgrounds, trails and other backcountry facilities.

Current Fees

For your convenience, all passes and permits are valid throughout Kootenay, Banff, Yoho and Jasper national parks. Complete Fee Schedule

Item

Daily Rate

Monthly Rate

Annual Rate

Wilderness Pass

$9.80

n/a

$68.70

Camping Reservation

$11.70

n/a

n/a

Grazing

$1.90 / horse

$24.50 / horse

n/a

Fishing

$9.80

n/a

$34.40

Horses and Mountain BikesThe backcountry campgrounds in Kootenay are not accessible to mountain bikes or horses. For biking, horse camps and grazing locations, please refer to Biking or call a Visitor Centre.

Campfires

Campfires are allowed only at campgrounds where fireboxes are provided – Numa Creek and Helmet/Ochre Junction. Keep fires small and use only the wood provided. In all other campsites, a backpacking stove is required.

Weather

Never underestimate the power of weather in the mountains. Check the local weather forecast before you leave, but be prepared for anything.

Conditions can change from minute to minute and place to place.

Generally, the higher you go, the colder and windier it gets.

Ultraviolet radiation is also stronger at higher elevations.

A toque, warm jacket and sunscreen may all be required on any given day during the summer.

Pets

Pets are welcome in the backcountry but must be leashed at all times. To a wild animal, your dog is a canine – a predator. Wildlife may flee, endangering themselves or their young. Alternatively, they may respond aggressively, endangering you and your pet. The best way to care for wildlife and your pet is to leash your animal companions.

Stewardship

Rocks, fossils, horns, antlers, wildflowers, mushrooms, nests and all other natural or historical objects in a national park are protected by law. Please leave them in their natural setting for others to discover and enjoy. Thank you!